Since
its inception in 1970, the Division of Criminal Justice
has included the Appellate Bureau, which is charged
with the mandate to represent the State in criminal
appeals.

The Bureau is involved in all appeals by defendants
sentenced to capital punishment, in trial and appellate
cases where the constitutionality of a criminal statute
is challenged and in matters in which the Attorney General
or other state officers are named parties.

The Appellate
Bureau coordinates, advises and assists county prosecutors
in the handling of appeals and provides legal advice
and assistance on criminal issues to the Attorney General,
county and municipal prosecutors and other state departments
and agencies.